High street cyber attacks need to be a 'wake-up call' for all businesses

High street cyber attacks need to be a "wake-up call" for all businesses, a senior minister has said.

Pat McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said firms must treat cyber security as an "absolute priority" - as the government increases its support for retailers.

said last night (FRI) that it's "working day and night" to resolve a cyberattack nearly two weeks ago that has left it unable to process any online orders.

And on Thursday luxury London department store Harrods confirmed it had become the latest target of the hackers.

Mr McFadden will use a speech to the CyberUK conference in next week to highlight moves to "bolster our national defences" including the forthcoming Cyber Security Bill.

"These attacks need to be a wake-up call for every business in the UK," he's expected to say.

"In a where the cybercriminals targeting us are relentless in their pursuit of profit - with attempts being made every hour of every day - companies must treat cyber security as an absolute priority.

"We've watched in real-time the disruption these attacks have caused - including to working families going about their everyday lives. It serves as a powerful reminder that just as you would never leave your car or your house unlocked on your way to work. We have to treat our digital shop fronts the same way."

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The National Cyber Security Centre is working closely with companies affected by the attacks.

As well as and Harrods, the has shut down some of its information systems as a precaution following a hack

A hacking group known as Scattered Spider is said to be behind the M&S attack, although this hasn't been confirmed. It remains unclear if the three attacks are linked.

"We are ready to support you," Mr McFadden is expected to say.

"The National Cyber Security Centre is standing ready to support businesses and provide advice, and guidance, on how to raise the cyber security bar."